Micrometric Watch Movement Adjustment via Elastic Cam Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional micrometric adjustment mechanisms in watch movements are inadequate for precise adjustments of a few micrometers due to their size and compatibility issues with existing watch mechanisms, often requiring dismantling and are not easily accessible for external tool-based adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A micrometric rebound adjustment device with a first adjustment stage of variable thickness, featuring a first component with pivoting drive means accessible by a tool and a second component fixed to the structure, utilizing elastic return means and helical cam surfaces for contact, allowing adjustments without threading or tapping, and enabling axial adjustment of watch mobiles within a reduced space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional micrometric adjustment mechanisms are used, then adjustment precision of a few micrometers is achieved, but the device size becomes incompatible with watch movement constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device is segmented into multiple independent components: a first component with a bearing and first contact surface, a second component with a second contact surface, and elastic return means. This segmentation allows each component to be miniaturized and optimized independently, achieving micrometric precision without requiring a large overall device volume that would be incompatible with watch movement constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism employs a nested structure where the first component is pushed against the second component by elastic return means, with both components integrated into the existing watch movement structure. The bearing is housed within the first component, and the entire assembly is nested within the compact space of the watch movement, allowing micrometric adjustment functionality to be embedded without increasing overall device volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional adjustment mechanisms are integrated into existing movements, then adjustment functionality is added, but extensive structural modifications and dismantling are required
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment device is designed with universal adaptability to existing watch movements. The first component can be integrated into various bearing configurations, and the elastic return means can be mounted on different structures. The device performs multiple functions: providing micrometric adjustment, maintaining bearing preload, and accommodating different mobile types, all without requiring extensive structural modifications to the existing movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is extracted as a separate, self-contained module that can be added to existing movements without dismantling their core structure. The first component with bearing and contact surface is extracted as an independent unit that interfaces with the existing movement through minimal mounting points, allowing the adjustment functionality to be added while preserving the original movement architecture.
3Measurement precision
If threading-tapping assemblies are used for micrometric adjustment, then adjustment precision is achieved, but functional clearances exceed the desired adjustment range
Solution Approach 1:
The contact surfaces are designed with local quality optimization where the first contact surface on the first component and the second contact surface on the second component are precisely shaped to provide point or line contact. This localized contact geometry minimizes functional clearances to micrometric levels, eliminating the excessive clearances that would otherwise be present in conventional threading-tapping assemblies while maintaining adjustment precision.
4Volume of moving object
If adjustment mechanisms are made compact to fit watch movements, then space constraints are satisfied, but accessibility for external tool-based adjustments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The first component is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to be accessed and adjusted externally despite the compact overall device size. The component can be dynamically positioned or exposed through the movement structure, allowing tool-based adjustment while maintaining a compact footprint. The elastic return means provides dynamic feedback during adjustment, enhancing operability within constrained spaces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise micrometric adjustments of watch mobiles with high sensitivity and adaptability to existing movements, reducing production costs and allowing for easy integration into existing calibers, enhancing chronometric performance without the need for extensive structural modifications.
Implementation Method 1
said first component (6) being pushed on said second component (8) by at least one elastic return means (9)
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6~11
Figure 8~10
AI summary
A device (1) for micrometrically adjusting the play of a watch movement (2) along an axial direction relative to a structure (3), comprising a pivot bearing (4) for said movement (2) defining an axial stop for said movement (2) along said axial direction. It comprises an adjustment stage (5) of variable thickness along said axial direction, which includes at least one elastic return means (9) pushing a first component (6) equipped with pivoting drive means (7) operable by a tool and carrying said bearing (4) on a second component (8) fixed to said structure (3) directly or via at least one housing (10), and said elastic return means (9) bear on said structure (3) directly or via at least one housing (10).